Tag: summer recipes

Simple Stuffed Zucchini Boats

I love summer cooking because there is such an abundance of produce, a variety of flavors and healthy ingredients that pair well to make simple meals.  This week, for “Farmer’s Market Friday” (on Facebook), I am spotlighting one of my favorites.  An ingredient grown every summer in my garden and found at many farmers markets…. zucchini.  There are several ingredients you can substitute like summer yellow squash, peppers and 8 Ball Zucchini.  Similar to my recipe seen in Frederick Lifestyle Magazine and  City Lifestyle Magazine  from last summer.  Recipe:  Stuffed 8-Ball Zucchini

If you’re looking for a super simple summer side to accompany your summer vegetarian dishes or pair with your gilled meat, this is another one of my “super simple summer favorites.”  Simple Skillet Zucchini and Squash. Have fun with the produce, get creative and see what you like best with these yummy summer goodies.

Simple Stuffed Zucchini Boats #farmtotable #simplenutrition #simplerecipes

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Zucchini packs a powerhouse of healthy nutrients.  It’s high in antioxidants, supports digestion and heart health, has shown to strengthen vision and has been linked to weight loss.  It may help reduce blood sugar, strengthen bones and support thyroid function.

Originally from Italy, this tasty ingredient is often found combining Italian flavors, sauces and cheeses.  Today I am sharing a healthier spin on this delicious dish.  This recipe can be modified in many ways to your liking and palate.

Simple Stuffed Zucchini Boats

 

ingredients:
  • 4 medium zucchini (my garden or The Jefferson Corn Stand)
  • 1/2 Tbsp avocado oil (or oil of choice)
  • 1/2 onion (The Jefferson Corn Stand
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced (can substitute powder garlic)
  • 2 tsp Italian seasoning (I use Tuscan Dipper from Olive and Basket)
  • 1/2 jar of organic sauce of choice
  • 1 lb bison or lean meat of choice
  • shredded cheese (I used goat)
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: Sometimes I add in fresh chopped peppers to this dish.  I also sometimes add in fresh chopped herbs in place of the dry seasoning.  Chopped fresh parsley can be added as a finishing garnish too.
  • Added nutrient option: Microgreens for a healthy topping (I use Maryland Microgreens)

NOTE: If you prefer non-meat options, you can substitute quinoa, chickpeas, beans, extra veggies and other cheese option. 

directions:
  1.  Preheat oven to 425 degrees.  Coat a large baking dish or cast iron pans with additional oil.
  2. Cut ends off of the zucchini and discard or compost.  Cutting lengthwise, carefully slice each zucchini in half.
  3. Using a small spoon or melon baller, carefully scoop out the seeds.  These can also be disposed of or saved to add back into the sauce.
  4. On the stovetop, heat a pan to medium heat and add the oil.  Add the onion and cook for 3-4 minutes.  Followed by the garlic.  Combine and cook for an additional 30-60 seconds while stirring to avoid browning.
  5. Add in the meat and seasonings.  Stir to combine.  Cook the meat mixture until brown and cooked through.
  6. Once the meat is fully cooked, add in the sauce and stir to combine.
  7. Reduce heat to low and simmer for at least 5 minutes.
  8. Carefully fill your prepared boats with the saucy meat mixture.  Top with shredded cheese.
  9. Bake boats for 25-30 minutes or until zucchini is tender and cheese has a golden brown.
  10. If desired, garnish with fresh chopped parsley and micro greens.
  11. Enjoy! ?

XOXO,

Kim

Simple Skillet Zucchini and Squash

Summer produce is coming in hot this summer and we are seeing the bounty at the farmers markets and in our gardens.  For those who planted gardens, you’re probably seeing a lot of squash and zucchini filling your garden.  This is a go-to dish that I often make during the summer months.

I love this dish because it’s easy, full of delicious flavor, healthy and includes many summer garden staples that are flourishing right now.  Have fun playing with different veggies and herbs.  For me, I like to include fresh garlic, onion, peppers (any variety) and tomatoes.  If you like a little heat, you can add in different kinds of hot peppers.  Fresh herbs are great for health and detoxification.  I love to use basil with this dish but you can also add in parsley, oregano, etc.

Zucchini is a healthy addition to meals as it provides antioxidants.  It’s been linked to reduced inflammation, support heart health, improved vision and may help with weight loss.  Add in more color of healthy veggies and you can have a powerhouse plate of health and flavor.

 

Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon avocado or olive oil
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
  • 2 yellow squash, chopped
  • 2 zucchini, chopped
  • 1 green pepper, chopped
  • 1 can diced tomatoes or fresh cherry tomatoes, cut in half
  • 2 teaspoons Italian herbs (or fresh herbs)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional garnish: Fresh basil

instructions

  1.  In a large skillet over medium heat, warm oil.  Add the onions and garlic, stirring occasionally for 5 minutes.
  2. Add the zucchini, squash and peppers.
  3. Add in the tomatoes and stir occasionally to avoiding browning or burning.
  4. Sprinkle the herbs of choice and blend ingredients.
  5. Cover and cook the blend on low (stirring from time to time).
  6. The squash and zucchini will be tender and lightly crisp.
  7. Garnish with fresh basil and serve.
  8. Enjoy! ?

Note: If you’re planning to freeze this dish, combine ingredients and cook for only a few minutes. Allow the dish to cool completely and freeze for later use.